Pickering+v.+Board+of+Education

Sandra Crum Alex Mathis

 Pickering v. Board of Education

Summary

Marvin Pickering was dismissed after publishing a letter in the local newspaper criticizing the school board and the district superintendent of schools. He criticised how the Township Board of Education and the district superintendent had handled past proposals to raise new revenue for the schools. He claimed that this First and Fourth Amendment were violated. The board claimed that all of Pickering's accusations were false and "detrimental to the efficient operation and administration of the schools of the district."

Holding The dismissal of a public school teacher for public statements regarding issues of public importance, without a showing that his statements were knowingly or recklessly false, violated his First Amendment right to free speech. Supreme Court of Illinois reversed and remanded. Mr Pickering had every right to speak his mind and publish the letter and the Board had no right to dismiss him.

Implications As teachers it is important to know that we have a voice and are able to express it when appropriate. It is very important for teachers to know that when we do express our thoughts about certain situations it may come with some backlash.

Question Was Mr. Pickering wrong in writing his response?